Epson's ColorWorks on-demand-color-label printer and VT6L six-axis robot arm are part of IPSi's Print-and-Apply Label Application System.
A new robotic system from Integrated Productivity Systems, or IPSi, takes advantage of an Epson ColorsWorks printer and Epson VT6L All-in-One 6-Axis Robot to help customers print and apply labels. Dublin, Ireland-based IPSi said it is focusing on small and mid-sized manufacturers with the new system, since they are the ones who typically are limited in resources and expertise.
“Bringing on JM Automation Services, a full-service integrator and manufacturer of custom automated machinery, IPSi developed a state-of-the-art, robotic print-and-apply system for streamlining the process of getting products packaged and labeled as quickly and efficiently as possible,” Epson said in a statement today.
Two different configurations of the ColorWorks printer will be available as part of the system, the company said, the CW-6000p model, which can make labels from 1 to 4 in. in width and the CW-C6500p, which can print labels up to 1 to 8 in. in width.
“Both feature a peel-and-present option. Additionally, the printers come standard with Applicator I/O control ports for automated label application and the ability to integrate with other automated systems,” according to Los Alamitos, Calif.-based Epson Robots.
“An on-demand color label solution makes so much sense for businesses finding themselves in situations where they need a unique label for every container,” said Andy Scherz, senior product manager of Commercial Labels at Epson America Inc, in a statement. “IPSi created a unique solution that demonstrates the power of automation for full-color print-and-apply labeling for industrial manufacturing environments.”
Epson’s VT6L robot arm is capable of handling various container types
The Epson VT6L All-in-One 6-Axis Robot has a reach of up to 900 mm (35 in.) and a payload capacity of 6 kg (13 lb.) and features a built-in controller. With the ability to have multiple end-of-arm tools (EOAT) attached to it, the robot has the flexibility to handle a variety of print and labeling tasks “for flat containers, round containers, and everything in between,” the company said.
“Epson has made robotic automation easy for organizations looking for operational simplicity and flexibility as requirements can change quickly,” said Scott Marsic, group product manager at Epson Robots, in a statement. “Epson All-in-One 6-Axis robots are versatile, supporting a variety of applications in addition to label application, ranging from pick and place to dispensing and more.
“With robots that are easy to program and operate and can quickly integrate onto the warehouse floor in minutes, Epson helps to relieve some of the apprehension about automation,” he added.
Epson expands training courses nationwide with Robot Certified Training Center
Epson also announced today that it is launching Robot Certified Training Centers, which feature courses “designed to help students quickly and efficiently program operation Epson’s robot and vision products.”
In addition to offering courses in person at its headquarters in Los Alamitos, it has opened regional training centers in regions in the western, southern, and northeast parts of the U.S. The company has teamed up with its Epson Robots AutomateFirst partners on the project and will host training centers with Gibson Engineering, Olympus Controls, CIMTEC Automation, and Advanced Control Solutions.
“All courses are taught by Epson-certified instructors in structured environments designed for hands-on learning,” the company said. “Students will achieve valuable skills that will help them implement automation systems faster. They will understand how and when to use various functions and options in Epson Robots programming software, resulting in the ability to deliver a higher quality of work and gain a head start on their next automation projects.”
Students will receive the same certification and training no matter the location
The company added courses range from beginner to advanced level and feature courses on the RC+ development environment, robotic vision guidance, and Epson RC+ Express. No matter the location, students will receive the same training and certification.
“Epson recognizes that taking time to leave the plant and travel to attend essential training sessions can be a challenge for our customers,” said Rick Brookshire, director of product management and product development, Epson Robots.
“Epson opened these Robot Certified Training Centers to provide customers and partners with an efficient and flexible way to obtain the latest in automation training to reduce their development time through innovative robot usage techniques taught in these courses.”
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